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lol my 4 year old says it but not in a rude way. if she's trying to say something and can't figure out how to word it she'll just shrug, lift up her hands and say "well, whatever" and laugh at herself. its kinda cute actually. but most people mean "i dont care" or something along the lines when they say it.

My stepson does it when he's being told smtg he doesn't like. For example, when he's told to do his chores or when he's in trouble for smtg he did. He does get into more trouble when he says whatever, because he always gets an attitude with it.

It is their way of giving you a response that is dismissive. They don't have to put any thought into this answer. It is also a way to put up a wall to show they don't have any hurt feelings in some situations.

It's a term that sometimes expresses anger or frustration. Just like pp said, it's a way of ending a conversation without agreeing or wanting to do what is asked of them, yet reluctantly agreeing to it while letting you know they arent happy. Or that is what I think, anyhow.

My step-son says it when he doesn't want to listen, I just make him stand in front of me looking me in the eyes until he's ready to listen to what I have to say. My daughter and son say it when they are trying to tell me something and they can't get the words out right. It's either 'whatever' or 'nevermind'.